Frequently Asked Questions

What is "toe and heel" adjustment for double glazing doors?

Toe and heel adjustment is a crucial maintenance procedure for double glazing doors that have started to droop or sag. This common issue occurs when doors become misaligned over time due to:

  • Toe adjustment: Adjusting the bottom hinge to lift the door and prevent it from dragging on the threshold
  • Heel adjustment: Adjusting the top hinge to ensure proper alignment and smooth operation

Our professional technicians can perform these adjustments to restore your doors to perfect working condition, preventing further damage and ensuring smooth operation.

My double glazing has foggy glass between the panes. Can this be fixed?

Yes, foggy glass can be repaired! This occurs when the seal between the glass panes fails, allowing moisture to enter. We offer:

  • Glass replacement: Remove the foggy glass unit and install a new double glazing unit
  • Seal repair: In some cases, we can repair the seal without full replacement
  • Upgrade options: Upgrade to higher performance glazing while we're at it

Contact us for a free assessment and quote for foggy glass replacement.

How often should I clean my double glazing windows?

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your double glazing windows:

  • Exterior cleaning: Every 3-6 months, depending on weather conditions
  • Interior cleaning: Monthly to maintain clarity and appearance
  • Frame cleaning: Clean frames every 6 months to prevent dirt buildup
  • Hardware maintenance: Lubricate hinges and locks annually

Use mild soap and water, avoid abrasive cleaners, and dry thoroughly to prevent water spots.

Why are my double glazing windows difficult to open and close?

Several factors can cause this issue:

  • Dirt and debris: Accumulated dirt in tracks and hinges
  • Misalignment: Doors or windows have shifted over time
  • Hardware wear: Hinges, locks, or handles need adjustment or replacement
  • Weather damage: Exposure to extreme weather conditions

Our maintenance service can diagnose and fix these issues, restoring smooth operation to your windows and doors.

What maintenance does double glazing require?

Double glazing maintenance includes:

  • Regular cleaning: Keep glass and frames clean and free from debris
  • Hardware inspection: Check hinges, locks, and handles for wear
  • Seal inspection: Look for signs of seal failure or moisture between panes
  • Lubrication: Apply appropriate lubricants to moving parts
  • Alignment checks: Ensure doors and windows operate smoothly

Professional maintenance every 2-3 years can extend the life of your double glazing significantly.

How long should double glazing windows last?

With proper maintenance, double glazing windows can last:

  • Glass units: 15-25 years with proper care
  • Frames: 20-30 years depending on material and maintenance
  • Hardware: 10-15 years with regular maintenance
  • Seals: 10-20 years before replacement may be needed

Our 10-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, and we offer ongoing maintenance services to maximize lifespan.

Can I repair double glazing myself?

While some basic maintenance can be done yourself, professional repair is recommended for:

  • Glass replacement: Requires specialized tools and expertise
  • Seal repair: Complex procedure requiring professional equipment
  • Hardware replacement: Proper installation ensures security and performance
  • Alignment issues: Professional adjustment prevents further damage

DIY attempts can void warranties and may cause further damage. Contact us for professional repair services.

What are the signs that my double glazing needs repair?

Watch for these warning signs:

  • Foggy or misty glass: Indicates seal failure
  • Difficulty opening/closing: Misalignment or hardware issues
  • Drafts or cold spots: Reduced insulation effectiveness
  • Condensation between panes: Seal failure requiring replacement
  • Visible damage: Cracks, chips, or frame damage
  • Increased noise: Reduced sound insulation

Early detection and repair can prevent more costly replacements later.

๐Ÿก Toe and Heel Adjustment on Double Glazing Doors โ€” What It Is and Why It Matters

โš ๏ธ Why Doors Droop Over Time

One of the most common problems with uPVC and aluminium double-glazed doors is that, over time, the door begins to "drop" or sag. You might notice that the door starts catching on the frame, becomes stiff to close, or the locking mechanism doesn't line up properly anymore.

The good news? In most cases, this isn't a sign of a serious fault โ€” it's usually solved by a toe and heel adjustment.

๐Ÿงฐ What "Toe and Heel" Means

Toe and heeling is a glazing technique used to brace and support the weight of the door through the glass unit itself, rather than relying entirely on the frame or hinges.

Think of the glass panel as a structural element. When correctly packed, it helps keep the door square and stops it from dropping.

  • Toe = packing the bottom corner of the hinge side and the top corner of the lock side
  • Heel = packing the top corner of the hinge side and the bottom corner of the lock side

This creates a diagonal brace inside the door โ€” a bit like putting a strut in a gate to stop it sagging.

๐Ÿช› How Engineers Fix a Dropping Door

Here's what typically happens during a professional toe and heel adjustment:

  1. Remove the glazing beads โ€” the trims that hold the glass in place.
  2. Carefully take out the glass unit from the door sash.
  3. Add glazing packers (plastic blocks) to the correct corners:
    • Bottom hinge side and top lock side to lift and support the weight
    • Opposite corners to brace and keep it square
  4. Reinsert the glass unit, making sure it's level and firmly seated on the packers.
  5. Refit the glazing beads securely to hold the unit in place.
  6. Fine-tune the hinges if needed to finish the alignment.

Once this is done, the weight of the door transfers through the glass diagonally to the hinge side, stopping it from sagging in the future.

โœจ Signs You Might Need Toe and Heel Adjustment
  • Door is rubbing or catching on the floor/frame
  • Difficulty locking or unlocking the door
  • Handle needs lifting or forcing to engage the lock
  • Visible gap at the top of the door on the handle side
  • The door doesn't sit flush in the frame anymore

If you notice any of these, it's time to have the door checked.

๐Ÿงผ Preventative Tips
  • Avoid hanging heavy decorations or objects on the door.
  • Check hinge screws occasionally โ€” loose hinges can make the problem worse.
  • Don't force a stiff lock; this can damage the mechanism.
  • Have large doors adjusted every few years to keep them square.
๐Ÿ Final Thoughts

A sagging double glazing door can be frustrating โ€” but in most cases, it's a simple fix for an experienced installer. Toe and heeling is a tried and tested method that rebalances the weight of the door, restoring smooth operation and extending the life of your door.

๐Ÿ‘‰ If your door is catching, stiff, or won't lock properly, don't assume you need a new one. A proper toe and heel adjustment can make it work like new again.

Maintenance Tips

Keep your double glazing in perfect condition

Regular Cleaning

Clean glass and frames monthly with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.

Hardware Maintenance

Lubricate hinges and locks annually with appropriate lubricants. Check for loose screws and tighten as needed.

Regular Inspection

Check for signs of wear, damage, or seal failure. Early detection can prevent costly repairs later.

Need Professional Maintenance?

Our expert technicians can handle all your double glazing maintenance needs, from toe and heel adjustments to foggy glass replacement.

Emergency Repairs

24/7 emergency service for urgent window and door issues.

Scheduled Maintenance

Regular maintenance plans to keep your windows in perfect condition.